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Vibration Training

It was with some trepidation that I tried Vibration Training recently. The result? I’m a total convert.

Vibration training has recently surfaced in New Zealand as a method for toning up and improving fitness. There has been extensive research into the benefits of this futuristic form of exercise.

My introduction to Vibration Training took place at Pause Wellbeing, a health and wellbeing studio in Ellerslie, Auckland. The friendly staff told me everything I needed to know about the VibroGym machine, and took me through the basic 15-minute workout.

How does Vibration Training work?
You stand, sit, or squat in various poses on a ‘vibration plate’. The machine I used was called a VibroGym. Mechanical vibrations are transmitted to your body through the VibroGym, so you end up shaking gently while you hold the position. As I was doing a Beginner programme, I had to hold each position for 30 seconds. I was taken through a series of about 15 poses and then given a warm-down vibration massage at the end. Beginners generally start on a frequency of 35 vibrations per second, but as you get more advanced, you can increase this.

Why I loved it:

  • The whole workout takes 15-20 minutes, and is said to be as effective as an hour at the gym. You could do Vibration Training on your lunch break.
  • It’s harder than it looks! You can really feel your muscles working, so you still get the sense of achievement you would expect from a traditional workout.
  • The Vibration massages at the end of the workout were really nice and relaxing.
  • It was pretty entertaining – the tip of my nose was wiggling away like crazy at one point. I know I’m onto a winner when I have fun exercising.
  • I felt amped afterward. It was like I could take on the world!

    Benefits of Vibration Training:

  • The staff at Pause listed several medical benefits, including increased blood flow, better muscle tone, weight loss, improved natural hormone balance, and improved bladder control.
  • The trainers told me the massage targets cellulite and lactic acid build-up at the same time. Choice!
  • Did I already mention how fun it is?!

    What you should know before you try Vibration Training:

  • People with certain medical conditions should not use the VibroGym. The staff at Pause talked me through this and answered all my questions.
  • Some people may have had a bad experience on a VibroGym due to the incorrect frequency and amplitude being used. If so they should let the staff at Pause tailor the frequency to their needs.
  • Vibration Training sessions are by appointment only. You can’t just rock up and hop on the machine, as you need to be supervised.

    Clea Marshall

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    2 Responses to Vibration Training

    1. Di Heap says:
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      July 19, 2010 at 7:33 pm

      I’m really passionate about the benefits of vibration training. There’s quite a few different machine brands and types and I’ve probably tried all the ones available in New Zealand.

      Check out my website where I write about them.

      vibeplus.com

    2. Lloyd Shaw says:
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      July 16, 2010 at 1:05 pm

      Consumer protection website for first time users of Vibration Training.

      No sales pitch. Just lots of questioned answered and a forum to ask questions.

      vibration-training-advice.com